Struggling to stray from familiar patterns and seeking growth beyond basic power chord structures, Stephen Carpenter openly admits his continued attachment to power chords. This admission comes as Deftones reveal plans for a new album.
In a continuation of their signature sound, Deftones are set to release their 10th studio album, *Private Music*, on August 22. The album, co-produced by Nick Raskulinecz, marks the band's third collaboration with the Grammy-winning producer, known for his work on *Diamond Eyes* (2010) and *Koi No Yokan* (2012).
Recorded across Malibu, Joshua Tree, and Nashville, *Private Music* comprises 11 tracks that showcase a harmonious blend of heavy guitars and Chino Moreno's distinctive vocals. The lead single, "My Mind Is a Mountain," offers a taste of this unique fusion, starting with intense guitar work before transitioning into a trademark Deftones vocal atmosphere.
The album reflects a maturation in the band's sound, blending alt-metal aggression with experimental textures and ambient layers. This evolution has long been a hallmark of Deftones' style, but it appears refined in *Private Music*. The album also marks the band's first release after a five-year gap since *Ohms* (2020) and the first without bassist Sergio Vega since 2006, potentially influencing the sonic direction and band dynamics.
Stephen Carpenter, the band's guitarist, has expressed his preference for creating soundscapes, particularly palm-muted chords and ringing chords. His love for the sound of power chords is evident in the new album. However, specific influences from Carpenter or other band members have not been disclosed.
Chino Moreno, the band's vocalist and songwriter, has mentioned that during the creation of their third album, White Pony, they were influenced by DJ Shadow. Moreno also stated that Deftones are more interested in making sounds than writing songs. As for the creation of *Private Music*, no specific details about Moreno's influences have been shared.
Deftones' approach to creating music involves a delicate balance of instinct and unfamiliarity, a combination that has served them well in their career. It remains unclear whether this approach has evolved or remained consistent over time, as no information about changes in their methodology since the creation of White Pony has been provided.
The new album's sound is not specified as a departure from the band's previous work, but it does showcase a refined and evolved version of their unique blend of alternative metal and emotive soundscapes. With *Private Music*, Deftones continue to push their boundaries while staying true to their roots, offering fans a dynamic and immersive listening experience.
- The new album, Private Music, features a harmonious blend of heavy guitars and Chino Moreno's distinctive vocals, showcasing a refined and evolved version of Deftones' unique alternative metal sound.
- Stephen Carpenter, the band's guitarist, is known for his preference for creating soundscapes, particularly palm-muted chords and ringing chords, evident in the new album.
- Deftones' approach to creating music involves a delicate balance of instinct and unfamiliarity, a combination that has served them well in their career.
- In the creation of Private Music, specific influences from band members, such as Stephen Carpenter's love for power chords or Chino Moreno's citation of DJ Shadow, have not been disclosed.
